Strengthening Energy Collaboration: Oman’s Minister Engages With German Counterpart

In an effort to strengthen bilateral relations and cooperation in the energy sector, Salim bin Nasser al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, engaged in talks with Dr. Robert Habeck, Vice Chancellor of Germany and Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Climate Action, as part of his official visit to the Federal Republic of Germany. The talks centered on Germany’s energy market requirements, the significance of energy solutions, the role of hydrogen in energy transition, and other mutually beneficial topics.

As part of the visit, Omani and German firms inked multiple Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) related to supplying green hydrogen to German refineries, alongside a letter of intent for green hydrogen supply. A pivotal agreement was signed between Hydrom and German VNG AG to assess the economic viability of establishing an Omani-German green hydrogen and ammonia value chain. This pact also included exploring a long-term agreement for procuring green hydrogen and ammonia produced in Oman.

Al Aufi was joined by various delegations including Najla al Jamali, CEO of OQ Alternative Energy among others. The visit aimed to bolster collaboration between Omani and German entities in the energy domain, encompassing the exchange of expertise in green ammonia and other modern energy technologies, facilitating connections between suppliers and consumers, and addressing prevailing challenges in the energy market.

Al Aufi underscored the significance of international cooperation in energy transition during his address at the Berlin Energy Transition Dialogue. He elucidated Oman’s vision and policy for the energy sector, emphasized the development of green hydrogen projects in Oman, and stressed the importance of harmonizing standards and certifications for energy and green products in line with exporters’ and importers’ visions. Dr. Firas al Abduwani, Director General of Renewable Energy and Hydrogen, stated that the visit presents an opportunity to bolster cooperation and knowledge exchange in the energy sector, aiming to identify new markets for low-emission hydrogen and supportive policies from both exporting and importing nations, thus reinforcing Oman’s stature as a key player in the global energy arena.

The delegation engaged with governmental bodies, energy firms, and heavy industries during the visit to gain insights into their latest policies, technologies, and innovations in the energy sector, which are poised to significantly contribute to Oman’s efforts in developing its energy sector. Eng. Abdulaziz al Shidhani, Managing Director of Hydrom, emphasized the significance of this milestone in achieving Oman’s national energy transition objectives, stating, “The accord will facilitate the establishment of a competitive infrastructure for the production and export of hydrogen through the creation of a cutting-edge integrated value chain. This initiative will not only bolster the sustainable expansion of the sector but also stimulate the growth of related industries.”